On behalf of the Victorian rugby community, Rugby Victoria offers our deepest condolences to the Kearney family and honours the achievements left behind by a Victorian Rugby stalwart.
Gary Kearney leaves behind a significant legacy throughout Victorian Rugby as a key figure for the VRU and his beloved Kiwi Hawthorn Rugby Club. His achievements both on and off the field are a testament to a man who strived to create a community built upon trust, loyalty, and passion for the game.
Gary was a past player for Kiwi Hawthorn and Victorian State teams, notching up 99 games in the 1st Grade. Picking up the whistle, Gary was also a former coach of Kiwi Hawthorn Rugby Club, where he led the Club to the Dewar Shield title in 1980.
Further, Gary was a member of the VRU judiciary for 11 years from 1983-1994, while also serving as a Selector and Manager for the Senior State Team from 1983-1985 and again in 1992. He later became Vice President of the VRU in 1993, serving until 1999.
Rugby Victoria Acting CEO Anthony Wright expressed the condolences of the Victorian Rugby community.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of Gary's passing, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kearney family.
"Gary was a passionate rugby man, dedicated to the game both on and off the field and we are incredibly grateful for his lasting contributions to Victorian Rugby."
Please join Rugby Victoria in celebrating the life of a great rugby man.
Information on the funeral of Gary Kearney will be made available by the Kearney family in due course.
